Sazerac Rye
Overall Score: 6/10
Overall Value: 3.75/5
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Classification: Straight Rye
Company: Sazerac Company, Inc.
Release Date: Ongoing
Proof: 90
Age: NAS
Mashbill: Low Rye, Rye Mashbill
Color: Rose Gold
MSRP: $30 (2024)
The Barrel Bros’ Review
Sazerac Rye greets you with the familiar Buffalo Trace sweetness, reminiscent of a grape Tootsie roll, complemented by hints of apple cider and warm mulling spices. This fruity nose is underscored by a subtle oakiness, adding some minor depth to the experience.
On the palate, the whiskey delivers a delightful punch of rye spice, balanced by a gentle sweetness akin to grape nerds, accompanied by a smooth, buttery mouthfeel. The vanilla notes from the nose come through, intertwining with the smokiness and oak flavors.
While the finish leans towards the dry side, it doesn't disappoint. Some of the flavors from the palate linger, though the woodiness becomes more pronounced. Despite this, the finish doesn't extend as long as one might hope.
Priced affordably, Sazerac Rye offers good value for its quality. At 90 proof, it strikes a fine balance between minor complexity and accessibility for those not wanting to break the bank. While it may not be as refined for sipping straight, its versatility shines through in various cocktails.
If you’re looking for specific notes from our Barrel Bros, read their individual reviews below!
Individual Reviews
The Rye Guy Says
Score: 6/10
Value: 4/5
THE NOSE:
First hints reminded me of a grape Tootsie roll with a pleasant sweetness.
There are additional notes of pine woodiness that mix with the rye spice.
The last smells before moving to the palate reminded me of a vanilla wafer.
THE TASTE:
The flavor reminded me of grape nerds but without the overpowering sweetness.
The vanilla from the nose continues here as well with a buttery mouthfeel.
The second half of the palate moves into that rye spice, smokiness, and oak. There is a significant bit of a burn at the end of the palate, especially for the proof point.
THE FINISH:
Probably the worst part of the pour for me. Many of the flavors from the palate do not continue into the finish, and I’m left with mostly woodiness.
A little bit of the grape remains, but I had to dig for it.
The finish doesn't last particularly long.
BUY OR PASS?
For the price, Sazerac does a decent job of representing what a good rye can be. It packs a moderate amount of complexity as well as a bit of a kick at 90 proof.
This is a good value buy for mixers, and one of my go-to’s for making an old fashioned. To make that statement more apparent, this is the whiskey that I have the most on my shelf at home. Another tip, this is my absolute favorite mixer of choice for eggnog during the Christmas season!
Unfortunately, Sazerac Rye is not quite developed enough to drink straight even though I really want it to be! That would make it the “Rye” counterpart to 1792 small batch bourbon, but it doesn't quite live up to that accolade!
The Hunter Says
Score: 6/10
Value: 3.5/5
THE NOSE:
You get that classic Buffalo Trace sweetness right off the bat, which is always a treat.
But, there's also this youthful punch to it that you can't ignore. It's like a burst of rye mixed with hints of apple cider and those warm, cozy mulling spices you'd find simmering on the stove.
THE TASTE:
It's like a rye punch straight to the taste buds—in a good way, though.
At 90 proof, it's got a nice kick without knocking you off your feet.
There's this subtle sweetness that hangs around. I wish there was more, but that’s about all I get.
THE FINISH:
It's a bit on the dry side. Nothing too fancy here, but I wasn't expecting much.
It's not mind-blowing, but it's not a letdown either.
BUY OR PASS?
Sazarac Rye is a fantastic offering at the $30 price point. Perfect for making a killer old fashioned that'll have your friends asking for seconds.
It's definitely a step up from your run-of-the-mill Buffalo Trace, but it's not quite reaching the heights of 1792 small batch. I wouldn't call it a sipping whiskey, but it's a great cocktail mixer. Cheers to that!
